Our kidneys are two bean shaped organs situated in the centre of our back just below the rib cage and above the waist. Healthy kidneys work to remove waste by-products of digestion and muscular activity from our blood; balance water and concentration of minerals in our body; synthesize the enzyme renin required to maintain optimal blood pressure and erythropoietin which in turn stimulates production of erythrocytes. Kidneys also help to maintain optimal bone health by synthesizing an active form of vitamin D. Continued loss of renal function over a period of time which may range from months to years is referred to as kidney disease.

Kidney disease occursas a result of genetic problems, some injury or overreaction to some drugs. People with diabetes, high blood pressure or genetic predisposition are at greater risks of developing it. Continued loss of kidney functioning is also brought about by the disease glomerulonephritis. Kidney stones, prostate disease, pin worm infestation of kidney, vasculitis, polycystic kidney disease and hemolytic-uremic syndrome are also the causative factors of kidney disease. Long distance runners who do not pay attention to fluid consumption may develop acute renal failure that damages their kidneys.

Symptoms:

The following signs and symptoms are indicators of development of a kidney problem:

Changes in urination: Frequency of urination increases or decreases; urine may have blood; urgency to urinate at night increases; urine is foamy and there is pain or difficulty in urinating and completely relieving the pressure.

Swelling in face, hands or legs.

Fatigue due to altered production of the hormone erythropoietin.

Epidermal rashes or itching due to deposition of waste material in blood.

Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting and a metallic taste in the mouth due to uremia.

Hypertension, hyperphosphatemia and hypocalcemia are seen in the patient.

Sexual dysfunction and rapid atherosclerosis is seen.

Pain in bones or fractures.

Pain in the chest due to inflammation around the heart.

Accumulation of fluid in the lungs causing shortness of breath.

Numbness in feet or hand, insomnia and restless leg syndrome.

Diagnosis:

Blood tests are done to the check the levels blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). In case of a kidney disease the blood levels of BUN and creatinine are found to be high whereas there is a substantial decrease in GFR.

Urine tests are also done to check the level of protein and electrolytes as well as presence of abnormal cells. In case a person is suffering from kidney disease microscopic analysis of the urine would reveal unwanted clumping of red and white blood cells. A comparison of levels of electrolytes in the blood and urine is used to decide whether the kidneys are functioning normally to monitor and filter the blood.

Ultrasound of the abdomen is done to check the size and any obstruction in kidneys.

Kidney biopsy is conducted for microscopic analysis of kidney tissues.

Stages of kidney disease:

Stage 1: Kidney function is diminished only a little. GFR is around 90 or above at this stage. Blood or urine analysis shows certain indicators of abnormalities or damage. At this stage patients are required to take control of their hypertension and diabetes, exercise regularly, cut down on stress and avoid smoking and alcohol.

Stage 2: GFR reduces and is in between 60 to 89. Apart from the precautions of stage 1 the doctors may prescribe other medicines to enhance the health of the blood vessels for dialysis in future.

Stage 3: GFR is between 30 to 59 and symptoms like anemia and bone problems become apparent.

Stage 4: GFR is as low as 15 to 29 and various complications related to chronic kidney disease are seen. Preparation for hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis or kidney transplantation begins.

Stage 5: GFR is less than 15 and kidney failure occurs. Dialysis or transplantation is mandatory.

Younger patients who reach the last stages of kidney disease are often at the risk of developing cancer.

Treatment:

Since it is a progressive disease early identification and treatment is must to reduce complications. In the initial stages lifestyle changes and medications for hypertension, high cholesterol levels and diabetes are prescribed to lower the rate of progression of kidney disease. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARBs) are used commonly to retard progression to stage 5. In the advanced stage replacement of the hormones erythropoietin and calcitriol as well as phosphate binders are done. Stage 5 involves hemodialysis thrice a week or peritoneal dialysis that can be conducted at home daily. Kidney transplantation is done to put a healthy kidney in a person who has reached the stage 5 that does the functions of the two damaged kidneys. Post transplantation dialysis is not required.

Natural remedies for kidney disease include:

Baking soda: It is said to bring about a decrease in the pace of progression of chronic kidney disease by neutralizing the acid content in the blood. You can mix a teaspoon of it in a glass of water and drink it regularly.

Cornsilk: Its tea can be consumed 2 to 3 times a day to treat infection of kidney, reduce chances of stone formation and edema.

Dandelion: A decoction made using dandelion roots and leaves is good for correcting kidney disease by virtue of its diuretic properties.

A decoction made using cherry flower stalks or dry fruit should be taken thrice a day after the main meals to promote urination. An infusion made using its stem can also be taken thrice a day. By virtue of its diuretic properties it helps to flush out the nitrogenous wastes that get deposited as a result of kidney disease.

A combination of carob herbs and bilberry juice stimulates kidneys and promote excretion of urea.

Gokshura: In Ayurvedic medicine this herb is used extensively to maintain effective kidney functioning as it helps in proper urination, reduces kidney discomforts and removes stones. One capsule of 60 to 250 mg strength needs to be taken twice a day after meals.

Lei Gong Teng: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this herb is being used successfully to treat polycystic kidney disease.

Pineapple: Rich in the natural enzyme, bromelain, pineapple helps to reduce kidney inflammation as well as prevents deposition of amyloid. When taken along with turmeric its benefits for curing kidney disease doubles up.

Cranberries and cranberry juice: Presence of optimal amounts of vitamin C, anti-inflammatory anthocyanins, potassium, sodium, and phosphorus in cranberries and its juice, makes them useful in enhancing kidney functioning and regulating the blood pressure. For making cranberry juice it is healthier to use unsweetened concentrate which should be diluted with water in the ratio of 1:3.

An Ayurvedic product by the name of Mutrakrichantak Churna which contains herbs like Punarnava, Varuna, Shigru, Apamarg etc. is beneficial in reviving kidney failure naturally. It also helps to reduce accompanying fluid accumulation and kidney tissue inflammation. 1 to 2 teaspoons need to be taken twice a day for a week to get the benefits.

Acupuncture is also used to ease the symptoms of chronic kidney disease. It reduces blood pressure, relieves prolonged pain and improves immunity. Extremely thin stainless steel needles are inserted at specific points to revitalize the kidneys. This helps to delay dialysis.

Micro-Chinese Medicine Osmotherapy is a natural alternative treatment for kidney failure which is used externally. Processing of Chinese herbal medicines is done and then they are put into two bags which are kept under the lower back of patient. The herbal medicines are absorbed directly by the kidneys with the help of an osmosis device. It works by reversing kidney damage and restoring normal kidney functioning.

Dietary recommendations:

You need to avoid protein rich foods as they produce uric acid which the kidneys have to excrete. This unnecessary creates problems for the already affected kidneys. This includes, chicken, red meat, pork, beef and animal organs.

Fish can be taken in small amounts. Highly salted and processed foods need to be avoided as they are rich in sodium. Avoid high-potassium foods like oranges, bananas, potatoes, spinach and tomatoes. Vegetables like garlic, rutabagas, winter squash, lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, celery, peppers and onion should be part of your diet. Similarly fruits that can be consumed without fear include blueberries, red grapes, strawberries, cherries, raspberries and apples. Anthocyanins present in blueberries, raspberries and strawberries lower inflammation of kidney tissues. Their mineral content is also good for healthy kidney function. Whole grains like unrefined rice, quinoa and millet as well as low fat dairy products should be consumed.

Some of the precautionary steps you can take to reduce the risk of kidney disease include:

Avoid alcohol or consume it in moderation.

Be careful with over the counter medicines especially analgesics like aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen as they tend to cause kidney damage.

You need to maintain optimal body weight.

Regular exercising, quitting smoking and meditation to relieve stress is also beneficial.